Ametüülalkool

Ametüülalkool, also known as methanol, is the simplest alcohol, with the chemical formula CH3OH. It is a colorless, volatile, flammable liquid with a distinct odor that is often described as alcohol-like or slightly sweet. Methanol is highly toxic to humans and can cause serious health problems, including blindness and death, if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.

Methanol occurs naturally in small amounts in plants and is produced by the anaerobic metabolism of various microorganisms. Industrially, it is primarily produced from natural gas through a process involving steam reforming and catalytic synthesis. It can also be produced from coal or biomass.

Methanol is a versatile chemical intermediate and a significant industrial solvent. It is used in the production of a wide range of chemicals, including formaldehyde, acetic acid, and methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE), a gasoline additive. Methanol is also used as a fuel, either directly or as a component in fuel blends. Its combustion produces less pollution than gasoline.

In laboratory settings, methanol is frequently used as a solvent for various reactions and as a component in chromatography. Due to its toxicity, strict safety precautions are necessary when handling methanol. It is typically stored in well-ventilated areas and handled with appropriate personal protective equipment.